Evaluation of a Blast Pressure Wave Apparatus to Model Traumatic Brain Injury in Rodents

INTRODUCTION Traumatic brain injury resulting from blast pressure waves is a significant concern, particularly among military personnel. This study aims to evaluate a blast pressure wave apparatus designed to simulate human-like traumatic brain injury in rodents, assessing both physiological and behavioral outcomes.

METHODS Rodents (Long Evans rats and CB57B/SMN2 mice) were exposed to a single 20 psi blast pressure wave using the newly developed apparatus. Pre- and post-exposure assessments included several behavioral tests: tinnitus, depression, and motor function. Control groups were exposed solely to an equivalent blast sound, but not the pressure wave of the device. Data was analyzed to compare outcomes between blast-exposed and control animals.

RESULTS The blast-exposed rodents exhibit significant behavioral deficits consistent with tinnitus and depression. These effects were observed across both rat and mouse models, suggesting the apparatus’s efficacy in inducing traumatic brain injury symptoms in rodents.

DISCUSSION The blast pressure wave apparatus demonstrates potential as a viable model for studying traumatic brain injury in rodents. The observed behavioral deficits align with human traumatic brain injury symptoms, supporting its application in preclinical research.